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Written question asked by Jim Shannon (Democratic Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 8 June 2026. It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Friday, 12 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Employment: Carers

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what support is available for carers receiving Carer's Allowance who wish to enter employment.

Answer

Through our Jobcentres, DWP supports unpaid carers who wish to combine their caring responsibilities with paid work. Full time carers who receive Universal Credit can access voluntary employment support from a work coach, which includes identifying skills gaps and referral to skills training, careers advice, job search support and volunteering opportunities. Customers who receive Carer’s Allowance may be also eligible for the Flexible Support Fund, which helps to remove financial barriers to work.

In England and Wales, carers, whether they are in receipt of Carer’s Allowance or not, and former carers, are eligible for intensive, personalised support from our voluntary Supported Employment programme, Connect to Work, part of the Government’s Pathways to Work support offer. This programme provides up to 12 months holistic support for disabled people, individuals with health conditions and people with more complex barriers to work to help them move closer to, and into, sustained employment. It can also provide up to 4 months’ support to people who are in work but at risk of falling out of employment as a result of their condition or barrier.

In Northern Ireland, services are run by the Department for Communities.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
6358
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Carers Employment Carer's allowance
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk